AIRCRAFT OPERATED BY VRC-50

Grumman C-1A TRADER
Transport version of S-2 Tracker twin-engine carrier-based antisubmarine aircraft. Used by Navy as general utility shipboard transport/COD aircraft, and training aircraft. Uses power plants and outer wings of S-2A and enlarged tail of S-2D, married to new fuselage that can carry 9 passengers or up to 3500 lbs of freight. Two Wright R-1820 radials. 290 mph at 4500 ft. See the following link for more information ...... CLICK HERE
To see a photo, click on THIS
Grumman C-2A & C-2(R) GREYHOUNDC-2A GREYHOUND MISSION: Carrier onboard delivery (COD).COMMENTARY: The C-2A Greyhound provides critical logistics support to aircraft carriers (CVs) deployed throughout the world through its primary mission of Carrier On-board Delivery (COD). Powered by two T56 Turbo prop engines, the C-2A can deliver a payload of up to10,000 pounds. The cabin can be readily configured to accommodate cargo, passengers or a combination of both. Mission essential cargo such as jet engines can be transported from shore to ship in a matter of hours. A cage system or transport stand provides the cargo restraint mechanism for loads encountered during catapult launch or arrested landing. The C-2A is also equipped to accept litter patients for Medevac. The large aft cargo ramp/door and powered winch facilitate fast turn around by straight in rear cargo loading and down loading. Demonstration of a ramp open flight envelope has added yet another dimension to the C-2A mission, allowing the air drop of supplies and/or personnel from a carrier launched platform. Automatic wingfold for carrier deck servicing and an auxiliary power plant installation for engine starting and ground power self sufficiency in remote areas provides an operational versatility found in no other cargo aircraft. The original lot of C-2A aircraft underwent a service life extension program (SLEP) in 1973. In 1984, a contract was awarded for the production of 39 new C-2A aircraft to replace the aging SLEP C-2A. Dubbed the Reprocured C-2A due to the similarity to the original (SLEP) C-2A, the new production aircraft included substantial improvements in airframe and avionic systems. All the older SLEP C-2As were phased out in CY 1987, and the last Reprocured C-2A is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in January1990. During the period November 1985 to February 1987, VR-24operating with 7 Reprocured C-2As demonstrated exceptional operational readiness while delivering 2 million pounds of cargo,2 million pounds of mail and 14,000 passengers in support of the European and Mediterranean theatres.

Rockwell CT-39E SABRELINER
The CT-39E provided high speed rapid transport throughout the Far East for numerous VIPs. Operated by a crew of three, the Sabreliner could carry up to seven passengers in comfort. While returning from Singapore for SDLM, Mike Neel lost a case of Anchor Beer on a Sabreliner (also the plane).For more data go here: CT-39E CLICK for a photo.
Lockheed C-130F HERCULES
The Hercules was the heavy hauler in the Far East. Operated by a crew of 2 pilots, 1 flight engineer, 1 radio operator and 1 loadmaster, the aircraft made many flights in support of the USS Midway, and other carriers, VC-5, SpecWarefare units, EOD, etc. The most popular mission by far was the Sleigh Ride to OSAN during XMAS season.In the early 80's the crew was complimented bya navigator, why this was is still unanswered.
The Definitive C-130 Site..a must see... C-130 HeadquartersCLICK for a photo
Lockheed US-3A VIKING aka Miss Piggy
The US-3A VIKING was a utility conversion of the S-3A Anti-submarine aircraft. Removal of various electronic equipment
created 10 cargo storage compartments and space for 5 passengers and a crew of 3. This aircraft was a long range COD that was especially suited for operations in the Indian Ocean while VRC-50 maintained a permanent detachment on Diego Garcia
To see a photo, click
HERE
Douglas R6D-1 LIFTMASTER
This aircraft was used by VRC-50 while the squadron was located in NAS Atsugi. It seems that personnel from VR-21 and the R6D-1 were
sent to VRC-50 TAD. These aircraft made many trips to Vietnam and were a workhorse.
Here is representative photo of the aircraft HERE
Douglas VC-54 SKYTRAIN
Was in 6th grade during this period and will need some help & verification for the history of this plane in VRC-50
Douglas VA-3B SKYWARRIORThe same thing applies here, need some input. Modified A-3Bs with VIP accommodation for four to six passengers in a pressurized compartment in place of the bomb bay. Need some evidence that this aircrftwas a VRC-50 aircraft at one time or another.